The 9th edition of the National Youth Games roared to life on Friday at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu officially declaring the competition open.
Represented by his Special Adviser on Media and former Sports Minister, Sunday Dare, President Tinubu hailed the Games as a breeding ground for future stars who have gone on to shine on national, continental, and global stages.
“This event remains a veritable platform for discovering and nurturing talents,” the President said, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to grassroots sports.
“Sports is a unifying force, and this government will continue to invest in it.”
Tinubu commended the National Sports Commission under Mallam Shehu Dikko and Hon. Bukola Olopade for driving youth development, while applauding Delta State’s consistency in hosting major tournaments.
He praised Asaba for transforming into “the headquarters of sports competitions in Nigeria.”
Declaring the Games open, Tinubu wished all athletes success, adding that only the best would emerge as champions.
On behalf of the host state, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, described the Games as “a celebration of Nigeria’s youth, unity, and future.”
Proudly restating Delta’s status as the “Home of Champions,” the governor reeled out the state’s track record of producing sporting icons such as Stephen Keshi, Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha, Blessing Okagbare, and Ese Brume.
He stressed that the state’s investments in modern facilities and youth empowerment remain unmatched.
“Hosting the Games for the third time running is proof of our commitment to grassroots sports. We believe in catching them young and giving them the platform to excel,” Oborevwori said.
Main Organising Committee Chairman and Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, said the Games were critical to building a pipeline from grassroots to elite podium success.
Local Organising Committee Chairman and head of the Delta State Sports Commission, Onoriode Oborevwori, assured participants of a seamless experience.
“From upgraded facilities to efficient logistics, Asaba is ready to deliver not just a competition, but a memorable spectacle,” he stated.
Since its inception in 2013, the National Youth Games has remained Nigeria’s biggest grassroots sporting fiesta, fostering unity while unearthing new talents. Delta State has dominated the competition, winning all eight previous editions.
This year, more than 6,000 athletes from across the country will battle for glory in 37 sports.
